Distinguished Engineer, Materials SME

Introduction: A Career at HARMAN Automotive

Were a global multi-disciplinary team thats putting the innovative power of technology to work and transforming tomorrow. At HARMAN Automotive we give you the keys to fast-track your career.

• Engineer audio systems and integrated technology platforms that augment the driving experience
• Combine ingenuity in-depth research and a spirit of collaboration with design and engineering excellence
• Advance in-vehicle infotainment safety efficiency and enjoyment

About the Role

This Materials Expert position will work in the global Car Audio speaker engineering team and will be responsible for the selection specification development and validation of materials used in automotive loudspeakers and components. This role applies strong analytical and problemsolving skills to identify root causes of material-related failures optimize material composition and processing and ensure performance durability and cost targets are met. The Materials Expert develops and maintains material specifications evaluates material properties and compliance with industry and regulatory standards and collaborates crossfunctionally with engineering manufacturing quality and suppliers to resolve material issues and support product development / performance throughout the vehicle lifecycle. This position plays a critical role in producing highquality loudspeaker products through datadriven material decisions.

What You Will Do

• Define develop and maintain material specifications to ensure compliance with engineering requirements industry standards regulatory requirements and customer specifications
• Evaluate material composition properties and processing parameters to optimize performance durability manufacturability and cost
• Support product development by selecting appropriate metals polymers composites adhesives coatings etc.... for automotive applications based on functional and environmental requirements
• Lead materialrelated problem solving by investigating material failures quality issues and performance gaps using root cause analysis and datadriven methodologies
• Coordinate material validation activities including laboratory testing supplier data review and production trials to ensure materials meet design intent
• Collaborate crossfunctionally with design manufacturing quality and purchasing teams to resolve materialrelated issues across the product lifecycle
• Translate lessons learned into actionable best practices design guidelines standards and technical recommendations
• Interface with suppliers to review material formulations process changes and certifications ensuring material consistency and traceability
• Analyze warranty field and production data to identify trends and implement corrective actions related to material performance
• Ensure materials comply with applicable automotive standards and regulations (e.g. OEM specifications environmental and safety requirements)
• Participate as part of the material science and Sustainability consultant team for global applications

What You Need to Be Successful

• Masters degree in Materials Science Metallurgical Engineering Chemical Engineering or a related engineering discipline
• A minimum of ten years of related experience and accomplishments demonstrated in materials testing
• Proven ability to analyze technical data and translate findings into practical recommendations
• A thorough understanding of organic and inorganic materials including adhesives coatings polymers ceramic composites etc....
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly document and present lessons learned and best practices at all organizational levels

Bonus Points if You Have

• PhD in Materials Science or a related field
• Working knowledge of the OEM customers specifications requirements & expectations
• Background and experience of / in automotive loudspeakers
• Familiarity with industry standards (e.g. ASTM ISO SAE) and regulatory requirements
• Background in manufacturing processes supplier quality or product lifecycle management

What Makes You Eligible

• Be willing to travel up to 10% domestic and international
• Be willing to work in the R&D Center in Novi Michigan (US) or Suzhou CN

What We Offer

• Flexible work environment allowing for hybrid work one day per week for positions that can be performed outside a HARMAN or customer location.
• Access to employee discounts on world-class Harman (JBL HARMAN Kardon AKG etc.)
• Extensive training opportunities through our own HARMAN University
• Competitive wellness benefits
• Access to HARMAN Campus Fitness Center and Cafeteria
• Be Brilliant employee recognition and rewards program
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters and encourages professional and personal development

HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard torace religion color national origin gender (including pregnancy childbirth or related medical conditions) sexual orientation gender identity gender expression age status as a protected veteran status as an individual with a disability or other applicable legally protected characteristics.